Healthy aging for women Veterans: What you can do today for a stronger tomorrow

As we get older, our bodies change, and so do our health needs. For women Veterans, staying healthy through the years means more than just going to the doctor when something feels off. It means taking steps now to protect your body, mind and quality of life for years to come.

September is Healthy Aging Month, a perfect time to check in with yourself and your VA health care team about ways to stay strong, active and independent as you age.

Here are key areas to focus on and how VA supports you along the way.

1. Strong bones, strong body

Bone loss is much more common in women as they age, especially after menopause. You might not feel it happening, but it can lead to serious problems like osteoporosis or fractures. Weight-bearing activities like walking or lifting light weights help keep bones strong. VA can also check your bone density and help you get enough calcium and vitamin D.

What to do:

• Add a simple weight-bearing exercise to your routine, such as walking or hiking.
• Talk with your provider about your calcium and vitamin D intake.
• Ask if a bone density test is right for you, especially once you are 65.

2. Mammograms save lives

Breast cancer is still the second most diagnosed cancer among American women. Regular mammograms help find breast cancer early, when it’s easier to treat. 

What to do:

• Speak with your VA health care provider about your risks and determine if a mammogram is right for you.
• Average risk women should start getting mammograms at age 40.
• Schedule your mammogram through VA if you’re due.

3. Gynecology care still matters

Even if you’re not having children or are past menopause, routine cervical cancer screening is still important.

What to do:

• Discuss your screening history and risk factors with your health care provider to determine the appropriate screening schedule for you. 
• Most average risk women should start cervical cancer screening at age 21.
• Discuss any changes or symptoms with your provider.
• Schedule a pelvic exam or Pap test through VA.

4. Maintaining your mental health

Your mental and emotional well-being matter. Aging can bring big life changes—retirement, caregiving, loss—and they can affect your mood and stress levels. VA offers mental health support to help you navigate these changes.

What to do:

5. Planning for memory and brain health

Forgetfulness can be normal, but memory loss that affects your daily life isn’t. VA offers care for memory and brain health, including dementia services and caregiver support.

What to do:

• Talk to your provider if you or loved ones notice memory changes.
• Ask your VA health care provider about cognitive health screenings.
• Prepare legal and financial documents, including picking a person to manage your VA benefits if you are no longer able.

6. Navigating menopause

Menopause can bring hot flashes, sleep problems, mood shifts and changes in bladder or vaginal health. You don’t have to just “live with it.” VA has treatments and supports to help you feel like yourself again.

What to do:

• Talk about symptoms like dryness, pain, or sleep changes.
• Ask your provider about options for managing menopause.

7. Bladder, kidney and pelvic health

Bladder leaks, pelvic pain or vaginal changes aren’t just part of getting older. These are treatable issues, and you deserve care that helps you feel comfortable and confident.

What to do:

• Discuss any symptoms with your VA provider.
• Based on their recommendation, you may need to schedule an appointment for pelvic health physical therapy or urology.

8. Staying active for long-term health

Excess weight can increase your risk for serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, joint problems and certain cancers, including breast and endometrial cancer, which are more common in women. Managing your weight and staying active helps protect your long-term health.

What to do:

• Adopt a healthy lifestyle, meet your health goals and manage your weight with VA’s MOVE! Weight Management Program. Even a small amount of weight loss, just 5% to 10% of your current weight, can lead to meaningful improvements in your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels and mobility.
• Schedule an appointment with a VA dietitian nutritionist to develop a personalized nutrition plan.
• Learn how to cook healthy meals through VA’s Healthy Teaching Kitchen program.

The bottom line: Aging well is a team effort

Aging doesn’t mean slowing down. It means being aware, staying active and speaking up about what you need. VA is here to support your whole health—body and mind—every step of the way.

Take action today